Skip to main content
← Back to Blog

Become a Local Friend

Rent a Friend in Australia: How It Works in Sydney and Melbourne, and How to Get Paid

'Rent a friend Australia' is searched by backpackers, new arrivals and visitors who want a local in Sydney or Melbourne, and by Australians asking about the apps and the jobs. How it works and how to start.

Oscar Garcia·Founder of Roavi··2 min read

Australia gets a steady flow of people who know nobody when they land: backpackers, working-holiday arrivals, international students, visitors with a spare weekend. "Rent a friend Australia" is their search, and Australians search it too, asking whether the jobs are real.

What an Australian Local Friend is for#

CityA typical plan
SydneyThe ferry to Manly, a beach locals use, a pub with a view, the markets
MelbourneLaneway coffee, the footy, Fitzroy and Brunswick, a night out that isn't on the tourist list
Brisbane and beyondThe river, a day trip, how the city actually works
AnywhereSettling in: areas, transport, a first weekend that isn't lonely

How it works#

Browse Local Friends in your city, message one, agree a plan, meet in public. Each sets their own hourly rate; worldwide most charge $15 to $50 USD an hour (what moves the price). Company, not dating: is renting a friend weird?.

Getting paid in Australia#

If you live in a city with arrivals and visitors, sign up free, add real photos and a short bio, set your rate and free times. Roavi takes no commission. It's a side income for most; declare it with the ATO. Paid friend jobs explains the work, and RentAFriend alternatives compares the apps.

Live in Australia? Get paid to show new arrivals your city.

Become a Local Friend

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is there a rent a friend app in Australia?
    Yes. Roavi works in Australia: Local Friends in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and other cities set an hourly rate, people message them in the app and meet in person. It's for company and showing people the city, not dating.
  • Who rents a friend in Australia?
    Backpackers and working-holiday arrivals who want a local, visitors with a free day, international students, and people who want to practise English.
  • How much does it cost?
    Each Local Friend sets their rate. Worldwide, most charge $15 to $50 USD an hour. Food, drinks and tickets during the meetup are agreed beforehand.
  • Can I get paid to be a friend in Australia?
    Yes, as a side income. Sign up free on Roavi, add real photos and a bio, set your rate and free times. People message you; you meet in person. Roavi takes no commission. Declare the income with the ATO.

Share this article

This article was written with the help of AI and reviewed by the Roavi team.

Related Guides